U.S. Visitor Information

Crossing the Border

Crossing the border into Canada and back into the United States is a fairly simple and straightforward process as long as you provide the proper identification.

Only passports or WHTI-compliant documents will be accepted when entering Canada or re-entering the United States. For more information on the WHTI, please visit getyouhome.gov.

As well, you will be asked by a Canada Border Services or U.S. Customs and Border Protection officer a few questions to establish your citizenship and the purpose of your trip.

WHTI-Compliant Documents for US Citizens

U.S. Citizens can present a valid: Passport; Passport Card; Enhanced Driver’s License; Trusted Traveler Program Card (NEXUS or FAST); U.S. Merchant Mariner Document when travelling in conjunction with official Maritime business or U.S. Military Identification Card when traveling on official orders.

U.S. Lawful Permanent Residents can continue to use their Permanent Resident Card (Form I-551) or other valid evidence of permanent residence status.

U.S. Passport Card

Issued by: U.S. Department of StateLimitations: Not valid for international air travelCost: $55 Age 16 & Older, $40 Under Age 16, $30 for Holders of a U.S. passportValidity: 10 Years Age 16 & Older, 5 Years under Age 16Info: www.travel.state.gov

U.S. Passport

Cost: $135 Age 16 & Older, $105 Age 16Validity: 10 Years Age 16 & Older, 5 Years under Age 16 Info: www.travel.state.gov

Enhanced Driver’s License

Issued by: Individual State or ProvinceLimitations: Not valid for international air travelCost: $15 to $30 above cost of regular driver’s licenseValidity: Will vary by State or ProvinceInfo: Visit your State or Provincial government website

For more detailed border crossing information contact:

Currency Exchange

To obtain the best rate of exchange we recommend using a credit card for purchases or exchanging your currency at your bank or financial institution prior to entering Canada. Once in Canada, currency can be exchanged at any bank.

What you can bring into Canada

Duty free articles that may be brought into Canada are: wearing apparel and personal effects, sporting goods (up to 200 rounds of ammunition), up to 50 cigars, 200 cigarettes, 400 grams of tobacco, 40 imperial ounces of alcohol or wine or 288 imperial ounces of beer or ale (case of 24) per adult, cameras (with reasonable amount of film), reasonable food supply per person and a full tank of gasoline. Note: all articles above allowed quantities are subject to import duties.

Firearms

Pistols, fully automatic weapons and firearms less than 26 inches in length are prohibited entry into Canada (exceptions are hand guns used by participants in bona fide marksmanship competitions).

Most sporting rifles and shot guns can be admitted without a permit if visitors are sixteen years of age or older. A description of all guns and serial numbers must be submitted to Canada Customs. 200 rounds of ammunition can be admitted duty free.

Vehicles & Driving

Seat belts are mandatory for anyone weighing over 40 lbs. and car seats are required for children less than 40 lbs.

Radar detectors and studded tires are illegal in Ontario.

Right turns are permitted on a red light after a complete stop unless otherwise posted.